The Washington D.C. area is known for politics, monuments, and history, but the one thing it definitely needs is a beach or place to cool down during the hot D.C. summers. We have gathered this summer’s best and closest beach towns to the D.C. area, all just a short drive from the capital of our country!
Cape May, NJ
Only a 3.5-hour drive from D.C., Cape May sits at the southernmost tip of New Jersey. Cape May is a quaint and small historic beach town stretching along 2.5 miles of beach and is perfect for your next romantic getaway, family vacation, or just a short day trip. Cape May is known for its Victorian-Style houses and architecture, and the area is deemed a historic landmark because of that, and also offers a beautiful boardwalk and beaches. In addition to driving, you can get to Cape May by means of the Cape May-Lewes Ferry that crosses the Delaware River and leaves from Lewes, DE.
Rehoboth Beach, DE
Rehoboth Beach is one of the most popular beaches in Delaware, located only a 3-hour drive from the Washington D.C. area. Rehoboth Beach is a bustling destination with beautiful beaches and a mile-long boardwalk with many different attractions, restaurants, and shops. This is the perfect place for your next family adventure, as Rehoboth is known for its family-friendly atmosphere with things for everyone in the family to enjoy.
Ocean City, MD
Ocean City is a resort town just south of Rehoboth Beach on the Maryland Shore, and a 3.5-hour drive from Washington D.C. Ocean City stretches along 10 miles of beach and has a 3-mile boardwalk full of restaurants, bars, shops, amusements and more. In addition to the beach and boardwalk, Ocean City offers an array of activities including water sports, golf, fishing, and museums. Ocean City, MD is also famous for its world-famous saltwater taffy, and is deemed “The White Marlin Capital of the World”.
Virginia Beach, VA
Last but not least, Virginia Beach is a popular beach destination about a 3.5-4 hour drive from D.C. South of D.C., Virginia Beach is miles long with plenty to do for all ages. Virginia Beach is known for its casual and relaxing environment and is nicknamed “The Resort City”. With some of the most beautiful and biggest beaches in the area, Virginia Beach also offers a bustling boardwalk, plenty of parks, nature reserves, museums, and an amusement park. Virginia Beach is a great place to vacation with friends or with family for the day, weekend, or even for the whole summer.